NEWS

Lake Macquarie: now to the Lake where the fleet and events abound this summer

1 September 2009Mark Philliips

"Rigging up for the LMYC October Springs Regatta"

Photo by:(unknown)

A very busy and full season lies ahead for the Lake Macquarie Etchells Fleet. Fleet racing commences on Saturday 5 September with the normal two-race programme. We are expecting a healthy fleet of 17 boats, possibly 18, registered for the new season.

We welcome to the fleet Paul Garaty and his crew on AUS1338 Critical Balance. Also we welcome Tom Braidwood as part owner of Belly Flop; a bit of a different tact this year for Tom who is more renowned for his exploits in several Volvo Ocean around the world races, Mini Transat and numerous offshore sailing exploits. Tom has had a bit of a similar transition into Etchells as to that of Tom Woods, both of whom may be more renowned for their skills on the foredeck of a yacht or dinghy. Both are trying to keep a bit drier these days by shifting to the back of the boat and taking hold of the helm.

Peter McNeil will also be in a new boat this year and is keen to get it up to speed for the upcoming Australian Championship on his home waters.

Hunter Academy of Sport Day, Sunday 20 September

We are continuing with the good relationship the LMYC Etchells Fleet has established with the Hunter Academy of Sport (HAS) thru the help of Tony Outteridge.

The fleet will be hosting a day where the kids', who have been selected to participate in this seasons HAS Sailing Programme, have the opportunity to get behind the helm of an Etchells.

This is a great opportunity for the upcoming local juniors to get a feel for the tight one-design style of racing that the Etchells are renowned for and it is also a great way for the local Etchells sailors to give something back to the sport that we all enjoy.

The idea is that fleet members are asked to provide boats and crew and the kids take the helm for a series of short windward/leeward races.

All previous years have been a great success and the fleet looks forward to again hosting this year's event.

Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club, Etchells Easter Regatta 2010

Planning is in the early stages, but is progressing well with regard to the inaugural NCYC Etchells Easter Regatta that Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club will be running over the Easter weekend 2010.

Although the NCYC does not have its own Etchells fleet (yet) it has expressed a keen interest and is keen to develop a close working relationship with the LMYC and its Etchells Fleet to partner with in organising this regatta.

It is envisaged that the racing will be held offshore in an area just south of the Newcastle Harbour entrance somewhere off Bar Beach and Merewether. The NCYC has already managed to enlist the support from local businesses Azzura Marine, Noakes Boatyard, Doyle Sails and Structural Cranes.